Knowledge of leishmaniasis among healthcare professionals in Central Morocco: Determinants, disparities, and implications for One Health-based control

Background and Aim: Leishmaniasis is a persistent zoonotic disease and a major public health problem in Morocco, where healthcare workers play a central role in its detection, prevention, and management. Despite national control efforts, knowledge gaps among health professionals may hinder timely diagnosis and effective surveillance. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge regarding leishmaniasis among health professionals in the Marrakech–Safi region, Morocco’s most endemic area, and identify factors influencing their awareness. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study was conducted between December 2024 and April 2025 among 514 healthcare professionals, including nurses, doctors, midwives, and technicians, working in public health facilities. Data were collected through a self-administered, expert-validated online questionnaire covering socio-professional characteristics and knowledge of leishmaniasis. Knowledge was scored on a 16-point scale and classified as “good” (9–16) or “poor” (0–8). Binary logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of good knowledge, with p < 0.05 as the threshold for statistical significance. Results: Overall, 67.9% of participants demonstrated good knowledge of leishmaniasis. Health professionals from Essaouira were 13 times more likely to have good knowledge than those from Youssoufia (p = 0.035; Odds ratios [OR] = 13.5; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.20–152.21). Those holding a doctorate (p = 0.050; OR = 8.00; 95% CI: 0.998–64.11) and those with 11–15 years of experience (p = 0.046; OR = 10.12; 95% CI: 1.04–98.49) exhibited significantly higher awareness. Completing a university-level course on leishmaniasis strongly enhanced knowledge (p = 0.002; OR = 4.55; 95% CI: 1.76–11.81). Conclusion: The study revealed uneven distribution of knowledge among healthcare professionals, with educational level, experience, and training as key determinants. Strengthening targeted training programs and integrating leishmaniasis content into academic curricula are essential for improving disease control. Future research should adopt a broader One Health perspective involving veterinary and environmental sectors to enhance surveillance, early detection, and community awareness. Keywords: endemic regions, healthcare professionals, knowledge, Leishmaniasis, Morocco, One Health.